Executive Director - Early Learning Center Confidential Issaquah, WA Job Details Full-time $80,000 - $110,000 a year 2 hours ago Benefits Health insurance Dental insurance Tuition reimbursement Paid time off Vision insurance Employee discount Qualifications Vendor relationship building School experience Early childhood education center experience Staff supervision Teamwork Accreditation standards (regulatory compliance area) Team leadership Team development Bachelor's degree Managing education teams Overseeing academic personnel management Admissions and enrollment management Leading team collaboration initiatives Educational compliance and regulation understanding Productivity software Staffing management Early Childhood Education Senior leadership Full Job Description An established, accredited early childhood education school on Seattle's Eastside is seeking an experienced, mission-driven Executive Director to lead day-to-day operations. The Executive Director is responsible for the overall management of the school, including: staff leadership family relationships licensing compliance enrollment a safe, nurturing, developmentally appropriate learning environment for children from infancy through school age This is a hands-on leadership role. It suits someone who combines strong operational and business sense with a genuine passion for early childhood education. The ideal candidate has a proven track record in three areas: growing enrollment, retaining families and staff, and maintaining strong licensing compliance. Key Responsibilities Leadership & Staff Management Recruit, hire, train, and retain high-quality teaching and support staff Provide ongoing coaching, performance feedback, and professional development Foster a positive, collaborative, and accountable school culture Manage staff scheduling to maintain required classroom ratios at all times Licensing & Compliance Ensure full compliance with Washington State DCYF licensing regulations (WAC) and accreditation standards Maintain accurate records for enrollment, staff credentials, health and safety documentation, and incident reporting Serve as the primary contact for state licensors during inspections and reviews Lead emergency preparedness planning, including fire and safety drills Family & Community Relations Build strong, trust-based relationships with enrolled families Respond to family concerns and inquiries in a timely, professional manner Support enrollment growth through tours, community outreach, and local partnerships Curriculum & Quality Oversee implementation of a research-based curriculum across all classrooms Maintain high classroom and program quality standards through regular observation and feedback Monitor developmental outcomes and support teachers in delivering engaging, age-appropriate learning experiences Business Operations Manage the school budget, tuition collection, and vendor relationships Track and report on enrollment, staffing, and operational KPIs Partner with the ownership and leadership team on strategic planning and growth Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Child Development, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience that meets Washington State licensing requirements 3-5 years of experience in early childhood education, including at least 2 years in a leadership or administrative role Proven success growing enrollment and reaching capacity goals Demonstrated ability to retain families and build stable, long-tenured teaching teams Strong compliance record, including successful licensing inspections and accurate record-keeping Working knowledge of Washington State child care licensing regulations Strong communication, organizational, and problem-solving skills Demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team CPR/First Aid certification, or willingness to obtain it Proficiency with standard office and scheduling software What We Offer Total compensation of $80,000-$110,000 per year, including base salary and performance bonus Performance bonus based on school growth and operational goals Health, dental, and vision insurance Paid time off Professional development and growth opportunities A supportive leadership team The opportunity to lead a program grounded in a respected, research-based curriculum

Pay:

$80,000.00 - $110,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Employee discount Health insurance Paid time off Tuition reimbursement Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person